25th Annual WomanDrum Retreat

Skills for beginners focus on gaining a solid basic skill-set: correct playing technique; finding and keep an even beat; accurately subdividing beats and playing syncopated rhythms; strategies for ostinato-based improvising; listening skills; and playing simple Africa and world rhythms. Skills for intermediate/advanced players focus on more complex rhythmic and performing concepts: additive and divisive rhythms; playing in uncommon meters; more complex tihais; arranging pieces for performance; extended playing techniques; improved independent coordination and listening skills; accompanying skills; creating powerful and expressive solos; teaching and facilitating techniques; and more challenging and complex world music rhythms, including African ensemble playing.